Want to try Linux for 1st time

**drojman** · December 31st, 2001, 12:54 AM

Hi all,
I am really interested in trying linux for the first time. I have read some things, and it sounds like the easiest one is Mandrake.
I am starting to download the iso files from linuxiso.org

Does anyone have any suggestions or ideas for a 1st time user?
I have a 6 gig hd that I am going to install it on all by itself.... my 30gig drive (the main one) is using xp.

the ultimate plan is to set up an old k62 450 computer as a router for my isdn line...

Also just to learn about linux and have fun.

i also do a lot of 3d gaming.. can you play games like counterstrike under linux at all?

totally new to linux.....

**Praetorian** · December 31st, 2001, 12:59 AM

Hi! I'm running Linux right now on a 450mhz K6-2 w/ 512mb ram (a little too much, hehehe). Depending on how many programs you decide to have running on startup or while using the machine you will need more ram or a bigger swap file. Currently the Linux Mandrake Gaming Edition can play CS. But, since you're not buying that, you might be abel to use WINE to get it to work. Talk to some of the guys here first to see how to get things setup with WINE. I'm just a newbie Linux user so I dont know too much.

Linux should do fine as a router for your ISDN line.

edit - Since its your first time, let Mandrake configure partitions for you. Its really easy during the install process but if you've got any problems just come talk to us.

And beware, do not do your daily tasks while logged in as root. Have fun with Mandrake. I use it, I love it, and its a great distro for newbies. There are many configuration tools that will help you setup and configure services such as a web server, and in your case, a router. Explore the system a bit so you can get a feel for things. Also, during installation I suggest you take the time to individually select packages, just so you get exactly what you want and you dont have to keep installing stuff later. Again, good luck and I hope your move to Linux is smooth.

**Daft_Ghosty** · December 31st, 2001, 01:03 AM

I'm no linux guru.. but =)

Mandrake 8.1 I believe is the latest.. could be wrong... easy to set up and install..

and gaming.. yep Half-life and all its addons from what all I know.. u could either pick up a linux version =) or play it through WineX..

This is just a general answer(s).. =) wait for the real gurus to post.. they will be able to tell u how to make linux bark.. =) err quack..?

-Sean =)

edit: I should add note that I know for certian CS will run under linux through winex.. seen it done.. but like I said I'm no guru, and can't even begin to tell u how this is done.. =)

**pbharris** · December 31st, 2001, 02:56 AM

hello,
i hear that mandrake 8.1 is easier than XP to set up. , so you should be set there.
the 6 G should be plenty.

i have debain running on a 722 MB drive on a k5-133 w/32 MB or ram (okay i don't need that much memory it worked fine with the orignal 8 MB, but it hleped X load quicker) , that includes X windows and server stuff (apache, samba...). so it can run on a pretty old machine. i would not use this machine to run games, it is used much more for a router/server.

since you are loading mandrake you will no doubt want some more like a k6-2 450

as for games i just use loki games, i had wineX working, buit i have not played around with it much.

hope that helps!

**vass0922** · December 31st, 2001, 03:26 AM

There is a linux version of CS, and has been for awhile.
Check out www.counter-strike.net for more info on how to do it.

You should be able to play it no prob, and the router is second nature to linux

I've never done it, but wish you luck!
I have a 2nd pc available to load it on, but I'm already extremely cramped in my room

Not to mention it needs a small HD lol

Keep us updated!
Let us know when we should welcome you to the bandwagon lol

**Dbest** · December 31st, 2001, 03:36 AM

For I've tried SUSE, Mandrake, Corel and Red Hat. The easiest ones IMHO are Suse and Mandrake I'm still learning Linux so take this advice from a newbie

.

**drojman** · December 31st, 2001, 11:14 AM

Ok, so i am over at the linuxiso page, downloading the iso's for mandrake, and there are a lot of them, but it looks to me like I really just need the first 2 or 3??
Anyone who uses it know for sure? #1 says installation #2 says extras, and #3 I cannot really figure out what it is... i was at the mandrake page and they say that the basic mandrake package if you order it has 3 disks....

**capybara** · December 31st, 2001, 11:39 AM

my drake 8.1 has only 2 disks, thats all u need install and extras.
Praetorian's advice is good, go with the default install and itll be easy. it configured
my router (netgear rt314), nic card, @home , all
automatically!